Translation

The Scottish singer-songwriter John Martyn dedicated his 22nd album, On The Cobbles, to the surgeons and nurses of a hospital in Waterford, Ireland. In this hospital a part of Martyn's leg had to be amputated. In this context it is striking that song number nine is called Walking Home. Handicapped or not, Martyn stubbornly keeps on going. Which is fine, especially since he, after somewhat lesser material, comes with one of the strongest albums in his nearly four decade career. Just like Robert Wyatt, Martyn has built a work that can be recognised from thousands. On the perfectly arranged On The Cobbles, John is joined by Paul Weller (guitar/ vocals/ wurlitzer) and Andy Sheppard (sax). But John Martyn with his sensuous, soulful and husky growler voice, that occasionally sounds a little mellow, puts a heavy stamp upon this music for people over thirty. It is aristocratic music that does not let itself be disturbed. The jazzy My Creator is among the three best songs from On The Cobbles. The other two are covers: the dark, bluesy Baby Come Home of Frankie Miller and Goodnight Irene of Leadbelly. The latter track benefits highly of the contribution by American singer Mavis Staples who, together with Martyn, spills cart-loads of soul over the listener. Great organ work too by Spencer Cozens. Unexpectedly strong album.